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5 ways to get in touch with nature in Tasmania

If you're wanting a break from the city, Tasmania's rugged beauty might be just what you've been looking for. Only two hours out of Sydney, Tasmania is its own world of stunning natural landscapes, just waiting to be discovered. Full of hidden gems, an estimated 40 per cent of the island state is made up of natural parks and reserves, from lush rainforests to waterfalls and breathtaking cliff-top views.

Spending time in nature can have a range of benefits to your health and wellbeing, according to research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology. So if you want to make the most of your time in Tasmania, these natural attractions will be a breath of fresh air

1. Mount Wellington

Taking a trip up Mount Wellington should be at the top of anyone's list upon arriving in Hobart. The mountain-top vantage point provides one of the most spectacular views over the city and Bruny Island, as well as the Tasman peninsula. 

Only a brief 20-minute drive out of the capital, the route to the mountain is an experience in itself, as you pass through the rainforest and glacial rock formations of the national park. Home to 500 native plant species as well as birds and animal life, Mount Wellington's trails are perfect for exploring on foot or by mountain bike and horse back. 

Make sure you bring your camera to capture the moment atop the mountain and don't forget your jacket, as the wind can pick up once you're at the summit.

2. Huon Valley

Like Mount Wellington, Huon Valley is an easy 20-minute drive out of Hobart. Experience the beauty of the valley on a picturesque treetop walk above the Tahune Forest, as well by sampling some of the best produce on offer from the local suppliers.

With the peaceful surroundings of the Huon and Picton rivers as well as the surrounding tundra, you can truly get in touch with some of Tasmania's most beautiful environmental attractions here. 

For those in search of a bit of excitement, you can experience the thrill of a hang gliding flight – while still safely attached to a cable system – by soaring over the forest canopy and sailing over the river for a gentle touchdown back to earth with Eagle Hang Gliding.

3. Mount William National Park

Heading north off the beaten track, Mount William National Park boasts some of the most stunning untouched landscapes in Tasmania. With golden sandy coves, glistening ocean and the orange lichen which covers the rocky boulders, Mount William is a burst of unexpected vibrance on the northeastern tip of the state. 

Teeming with natural wildlife and greenery, this sprawling park provides a unique insight into Tasmania's amazing environment, from the Bay of Fires to Eddystone Point and Mount William itself. 

See if you can catch a glimpse of the local residents, such as wombats and wallabies, pademelons, echidnas and the rare Forester kangaroo. Guided walks are also available for you to see the best the north has to offer.

4. Lake St Clair​ and Cradle Mountain

The crowning beauty of the region, the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair​ National Park is where you'll find one of the most iconic landscapes in Tasmania. In the shadow of the mountains peaks is found the famous Overland Track which winds through the rainforest for a grand tour of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area to Australia's deepest lake, Lake St Clair. 

You definitely don't have to be a hiker to experience the natural majesty of the park – take a cruise across the serene waters of the lake, or board a scenic flight for a bird's eye view of the awe-inspiring vistas. 

As Lake St Clair and Cradle Mountain are also home to some of Australia's most precious Aboriginal heritage sites, you can step back in time with a cultural walk and see some of the caves and shelters which have been preserved here over the years.

5. Tasman National Park

Last but not least, Tasmania's famous Tasman cliffs are not to be missed on your next visit. The Tasman Peninsula is a magnificent example of the rare rock formations found in Australia known as dolerite cliffs, with many more sights to discover along the rugged coastline. 

A 90-minute drive from Hobart means that some of Tasmania's most beloved natural attractions are accessible by car, such as the Tasman Arch and the Blowhole, as well as Waterfall Bay, the Remarkable Cave and the Tessellated Pavement.

For the more adventurous travellers who want a story or two to take home, try your hand at scaling the sea stacks. The vertical rocky columns of the Candlestick, north of Fortescue Bay and Totem Pole at Cape Hauy are popular with tour groups and individual climbers alike, and are perfect for a climbing or abseiling adventure.

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